Adult Classes

Learn the basics of lithographic printing using smart plates. Smart plates are polyester plates that allow for easier lithographic printing with cheaper, more accessible materials and minimal chemical processing. Come to class prepared with an image/composition in mind. You can hand draw on the plate or trace. Plates are approximately 7"x 6 to 12." This crash course in smart plate lithography will allow you to enter our open studio hours and continue your printmaking practice.

Learn the basics of block printing one-on-one in this introductory art partner course. 

Block printing is a type of relief printing that utilizes a carved block made of wood, linoleum, softcut rubber, or vinyl. The block is rolled up with ink and printed onto a surface using pressure applied either by hand or a printing press. This crash course includes lessons on carving (into softcut), inking, and printing. Demonstrations will be done with pre-carved blocks with time allowed for you to carve your own block. This course qualifies you for open studio hours so you can continue with your block printing adventures! 

 

This class will introduce you to basic of screen printing. You will learn techniques and tools necessary to use our studio facilities as well as a crash course in Photoshop and transparency photo printing to render images for screenprinting. There are many possibilities with screenprinting hand-drawn images and digital images, so come prepared with some broad ideas of what kind of imagery you want to make and be ready to take notes. Once you have completed this class, you can schedule time in the print studio on your own.

In this course, students explore the basic physical properties of clay by practicing a variety of hand-forming techniques used to create functional objects. Hand-forming techniques will include pinch pottery, slab and coil building, mold slumping, and texturizing surfaces. The objective of this class is not to make pieces to take home, but rather to learn what is possible and give students a chance to get their hands dirty and feel what it's like to work with clay. No previous experience with clay is needed for this class. This class is a prerequisite to attend instructional open studio.

Have you ever been interested in learning the art of metalsmithing in order to create your own, one-of-a-kind jewelry? Now you can at Prairie Arts Center! In this Beginning Metalsmithing and Jewelry course, students will learn to solder, texture, saw, file, and set a stone while creating a beautiful ring to take home. Students will also learn jewelry studio safety protocols and how to properly use and care for the tools. No previous metalsmithing experience is required. Upon completion of this course, students may sign up to use the studio during open studio hours.